Study of the Interfacial Properties of an Al/Al3ZrxTi(1-x) Metal Matrix Composite

摘要

The Al/Al3ZrxTi(1-x) metal-matrix composite is unique. Unlike most MMC's, which are formed by chemical reaction of the reinforcing phase with the matrix, the intermetallic particles in this material develop by solidification. The particles are formed when a molten mixture of the elemental constituents in the composite is cast. The apparent result of this process is a particle/matrix interface of impressive strength. The composite has shown excellent ductility, but there has been no evidence of particle pullout or debonding. It is proposed that the mechanical properties and microscopic features of this composite be determined and compared to those found in materials with apparently brittle interfaces, e.g. Al/SiC. The properties will also be compared to those found in a composite of the same composition but prepared differently, i.e. by long-term, high temperature aging of supersaturated Al solid solutions containing small quantities of Zr and Ti. These comparisons will help to explain the interfacial strength of the Al/Al3ZrxTi(1-x) metal-matrix composite.